If the bill were to pass, bail bondsmen and those released on bail would have to adhere to stricter laws. Hope believes strengthening bail standards is necessary to prevent dangerous criminals from being released on bail that is set too low; as was the case with the murderer of four Lakewood police offers in 2009.

“This bill is the result of a lot of hard work. The goal of the work group was to bring all parties to the table and discuss how we could fix things. I feel this bill does that. This legislation makes some great changes to current bail practices and could help us stop future tragedies. Does it cover every single issue that needs to be changed about bail? No. But I’m confident that we will address all the issues covered by the work group in due time. I’m happy we’re taking a big step in the right direction,” Hope said.

Many members of the Public Safety & Emergency Preparedness Committee agreed with Hope and the bill is scheduled for a vote in committee on Jan. 31.